Navigating Sterile Processing Internship Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide

Sterile processing internships are a crucial step towards becoming a certified sterile processing technician and launching a rewarding career in healthcare. These internships provide hands-on experience, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. This article will explore the requirements for sterile processing internships, focusing on what students can expect and how to prepare for this vital part of their training.

The Importance of Hands-On Training

The CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) certification program recognizes technicians who have demonstrated the experience, knowledge, and skills necessary to provide competent services as an SP technician. In addition to passing the certification exam, 400 hours of hands-on experience are required to obtain CRCST status. Sterile processing technicians are integral members of the healthcare team. They are responsible for decontaminating, inspecting, assembling, disassembling, packaging, and sterilizing reusable surgical instruments or devices in a healthcare facility. An internship allows students to put theory into practice, solidifying their understanding of these critical processes.

General Internship Requirements

While specific requirements may vary depending on the facility and the training program, some general prerequisites are common. These may include:

Provisional HSPA Certification: This certification demonstrates that the student has completed the necessary coursework and passed a preliminary exam.
Immunization Records: Healthcare facilities require proof of certain immunizations to protect both the student and patients.
Drug Tests: Drug screenings are standard practice in healthcare settings to ensure a safe and drug-free environment.
Background Checks: A background check is typically required to verify the student's suitability for working in a healthcare setting.

It is important to note that more information may be required.

Finding Internship Opportunities

Several avenues exist for finding sterile processing internship opportunities.

Training Program Assistance: Many sterile processing training programs, such as those offering Internship Assistance in California, provide assistance with finding internship placements. These programs often have partnerships with local hospitals and healthcare facilities. While enrolled in a course that includes Internship Assistance, students will receive assistance with local healthcare facilities to complete hands-on internship hours or will be advised to find a location independently.
Independent Search: Students may also choose to find an internship location independently.
Networking: Contacting local hospitals and healthcare facilities directly can be a fruitful approach.

Central Sterilization Solutions (CSS) Approach

Central Sterilization Solutions (CSS) has multiple partnering healthcare locations throughout California, which are utilized to help customers complete their required CRCST 400 hours. CSS students will learn true on-the-job responsibilities, processes, and procedures. CSS provides students liability insurance for any out-of-network location. After completing CSS (Education, Career Support), and healthcare facility requirements students then request assistance to conduct hands-on training in a local hospital or will need to secure a location independently. After provisional certification, students will be provided assistance to access in-network, local hospitals to complete their 400 hours. CSS also supplies liability insurance with new locations upon new contracts to aid our student’s ability to achieve their internship at locations outside our network.

For students ready to proceed or utilize Internship Assistance the closest In-Network location to the customer/student is contacted to confirm availability and requirements. CSS will communicate via the facility’s preferred method to confirm all requirements and relay this information to the customer/student to begin the onboarding process. Each location has varying requirements which must be met before on-site training (internship). The willingness of the student to accept in-network healthcare facility requirements is not the responsibility of CSS. CSS complies with the healthcare facilities’ requirements and clearly outlines these responsibilities/requirements to the customer/student upon externship assistance request and the onboarding process. CSS cannot be held responsible for the unsuccessful placement of the customer/student, in such circumstances where the willingness to accept facility requirements is not met or accepted by the customer/student. These locations are not guaranteed, as each facility has varying rotation availability, requirements, or differing limitations.

Internship Hours and Duration

Provisionally certified students are required by HSPA to complete 400 hours of hands-on training. Most healthcare facilities require full-time day shift hours. Some facilities may accommodate part-time hours but will have to confirm. It takes roughly 3 months to complete the required hands-on training (400) hours. Documentation of the completed hours of hands-on experience must be submitted to HSPA prior to the six-month expiration date. Failure to submit these hours within this designated time frame will result in a forfeiture of your Provisional CRCST certification, and you will need to reapply for the certification exam.

Paid vs. Unpaid Internships

The hands-on training hours are typically unpaid. The CSS In-Network locations are unpaid internships. However, some programs, like MultiCare’s Sterile Processing Technician Trainee Program, offer paid training opportunities.

MultiCare’s Sterile Processing Technician Trainee Program

MultiCare’s Sterile Processing Technician Trainee Program offers a unique opportunity for students currently enrolled in a central service technician course to gain hands-on experience, receive financial support and earn a paycheck while completing their training. Trainees are employed full-time by MultiCare and paid for the duration of the program. The program includes 10 weeks of combined classroom and clinical experience. During this time, you will split your schedule between learning in the classroom and gaining hands-on experience in the clinical environment. Participants will sign a one-year work agreement to remain with MultiCare as a certified Central Service Technician for at least one year following certification. During the 12-week training, typical hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

The Career Path of a Sterile Processing Technician

Signing up for a sterile processing certification program is the first step towards an exciting career in the healthcare field. Sterile processing is one of the most important positions in the healthcare industry. No matter the job title, you’ll be in charge of instrument and medical device decontamination, organization, and packaging. Your day might start with packaging or transporting sterilized equipment. Throughout the day, you’ll record everything you do and keeping track of any apparatus deliveries you make.

Sterile processing might be a great career choice for those looking for a fast-paced work environment that doesn’t require continuous customer interaction. Even though you don’t have to work directly with patients, you may occasionally see some blood or bodily fluids. After completing your sterile processing technician training, there are a plethora of places you can work in this field. Anywhere that medical equipment is used, there’s a need to have it properly handled by central sterile technicians. Sterilization technician positions can offer flexible working hours (from nights and weekends to weekdays), however, the exact shift requirements vary based on the type of facility. A hospital will probably have evening and overnight shifts available.

According to Indeed.com, the average sterile processing tech salary in 2019 was about $50,000 (over $24.00 per hour). This is excellent for an entry-level position that doesn’t have direct patient contact and has a predictable working environment. The requirement for sterile processing techs is projected to grow 10% to 14% between 2016 and 2026. As a processing technician, you can work your way up to a sterile processing supervisor, which comes with a fairly significant raise. According to Glassdoor the average salary for a supervisor is $52,526.

Education and Certification

To get started on your way to becoming a sterile processing tech, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED. Program lengths vary but they tend to require anywhere from ten weeks to two years, though most are between 4 to 8 months. To apply to a SPT program, you’ll need to submit an application, provide the required admission documents, and possibly take a standardized test (e.g. In addition to classroom time, you’ll be required to complete a clinical internship to gain some practical experience. The first certification you’ll want to sit for is the CRCST, as it’s required to take the other two tests, which are specializations. The CRCST will show your knowledge, skills, and capabilities as a sterile processing technician. The CBSPD offers the SPD Certification Exam, which is valid for 5 years. While SPT programs are taught at hundreds of schools across the country, it’s advisable to do your research. Visit a few campuses and speak with admissions specialists who can answer all of your questions.

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